Gold Bug

It’s safe to say there’s no other store in town all of L.A. like Gold Bug, an always-intriguing, sometimes-macabre collection of art, artifacts, jewelry, decorative objects, clothing and more, all with a natural-history or Victoriana bent. Besides the regular collection, which is fascinating enough, the store also serves as an art gallery with rotating shows of works: taxidermy, bug art, “cultural debris” art and more. Don’t plan on a quick look—this place demands lots of looking time.

Staples: Gifts unlike any other, sure to get an oh-wow out of the recipient, whether it’s an ultra-ruffled Victorian-style blouse or an elegant crystal hourglass.